Auxiliary Thruster Steering for Low-Complexity Hull Rotation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional marine vessels with multiple propulsion devices having different maximum outputs face complex control mechanisms, and there is a need to reduce environmental burdens such as carbon dioxide emissions.

Innovation Solution

A marine propulsion system with a main propulsion device and an auxiliary propulsion device, where the auxiliary device has a smaller maximum output and a wider steering angle range than the main device, is controlled by a controller to rotate the hull without generating thrust from the main device, utilizing an electric motor for the auxiliary device to reduce complexity and emissions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple propulsion devices having different maximum outputs are used, then the propulsion system can provide varied thrust capabilities, but the control mechanism becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvethrust capabilityVSAvoidcontrol mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The propulsion system is segmented into a main propulsion device for forward movement and an auxiliary propulsion device specifically for hull rotation. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function, with the auxiliary device having a wider steering angle range (±45 degrees) compared to the main device (±30 degrees), thereby simplifying the control mechanism while maintaining varied thrust capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The auxiliary propulsion device is positioned asymmetrically at the port side of the hull, creating a localized thrust application point that simplifies rotation control. This asymmetric positioning allows the auxiliary device to generate effective rotational moments without requiring complex coordination with the main propulsion device, thus reducing overall control complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Device complexity

If conventional propulsion devices are used for hull rotation, then the system can maintain structural simplicity, but carbon dioxide emissions increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem structureVSAvoidcarbon dioxide emissions

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The auxiliary propulsion device replaces a conventional mechanical propulsion system with an electric motor-driven system. This substitution eliminates the need for additional combustion engines or complex mechanical transmission systems, thereby maintaining structural simplicity while significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The electric motor provides the necessary thrust for hull rotation without the environmental burdens of fossil fuel combustion.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If the auxiliary propulsion device has a wider steering angle range, then hull rotation becomes easier and more responsive, but the device requires more precise control

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehull rotation responsivenessVSAvoidcontrol precision

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The controller incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor the auxiliary propulsion device's thrust output and steering angle in real-time. This feedback allows the system to automatically adjust the auxiliary device's operation to achieve the desired hull rotation, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring precise control. The feedback system compensates for the wider steering angle range by continuously optimizing the auxiliary device's performance based on actual hull response.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system simplifies hull rotation control and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by using an electric motor for the auxiliary device, ensuring smooth and efficient hull rotation without complex controls, thus aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Implementation Method 1

including an electric motor to drive an auxiliary thruster to generate a thrust

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic conversion: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12486014B2Marine propulsion system and marine vessel

Publication Date: 2025.12.02 YAMAHA MOTOR CO LTD

AI summary

A marine propulsion system includes a controller configured or programmed to perform a control to rotate a hull by driving an auxiliary propulsion device having a maximum output smaller than a maximum output of a main propulsion device and having a steering angle range wider than a steering angle range of the main propulsion device without generating a thrust from the main propulsion device.